Things To Do
in Sibu
Sibu is a bustling town located in the state of Sarawak, Malaysia. Known as the gateway to central Sarawak, Sibu is a major commercial and industrial center. The town is situated along the mighty Rajang River, offering picturesque waterfront views and opportunities for river cruises.
With its diverse population and vibrant culture, Sibu is a hub for traditional Chinese and indigenous Dayak communities.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sibu Night Market for a delicious breakfast. Savor local delicacies like the popular kampua noodles and kopi O.
Head to the Sibu Heritage Centre to learn about the local culture and history. You can also stroll along the picturesque Rejang River.
Enjoy dinner at one of Sibu’s waterfront restaurants. Don't forget to try out their seafood specialties while enjoying the river view.
Visit Bukit Lima Nature Reserve for a refreshing morning walk among nature. The trails are perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying fresh air.
Pack a picnic and relax at the park’s gazebo. Take in the lush greenery and tranquility of the surroundings.
Return to the city and indulge in local street food for dinner. Sibu’s food scene is vibrant in the evening with many stalls to explore.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a blend of various ethnic groups.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including rivers, hills, and national parks.
- Delicious and diverse local cuisine, known for its unique flavors.
- Developing infrastructure and increasing tourist attractions.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Limited public transportation options, which may hinder travel.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities and conveniences.
- Potential environmental issues due to rapid development.
- Mosquitoes and tropical diseases can be a concern in certain seasons.
- Higher humidity and heat may be uncomfortable for some visitors.
Best Activities in Sibu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
This recreational park offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and beautiful views of the surrounding scenery.
A popular location for outdoor events, leisure strolls, and exercise such as jogging or cycling.
Explore the historical and cultural aspects of Sibu while taking a leisurely walk around the surrounding area.
Experience the hustle and bustle of the local market while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and sampling local delicacies.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sibu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sibu
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the oldest temples in Sibu; offers a picturesque view of the Rajang River and the surrounding area
Perfect place to capture the modern and bustling cityscape of Sibu, with the riverfront as a backdrop
Provides panoramic views of Sibu town and the Rajang River; ideal for capturing aerial shots of the city
Offers a glimpse of Sibu's rich history and culture, with excellent photo opportunities of traditional architecture and artifacts
Food in Sibu
Sibu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular noodle dish of Foochow origin, Kampua Mee features springy egg noodles tossed in shallot oil and accompanied by slices of char siu (barbecued pork) or minced pork. One of the best places to savor this iconic dish is at Lau Ya Keng, a renowned coffee shop in Sibu.
Must-Try!
Manok Pansoh, a traditional Iban delicacy, involves cooking chicken marinated with local herbs in a bamboo tube over an open fire. This cooking method infuses the chicken with a distinct smoky flavor. For an authentic taste of Manok Pansoh, head to traditional longhouse restaurants dotted along the outskirts of Sibu.
Umai is a refreshing and zesty traditional Melanau dish featuring raw fish marinated in calamansi lime juice, onions, chili, and other seasonings. For a delightful Umai experience, visit the bustling Sibu Central Market where vendors serve up this local specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sibu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Sibu Central Market is an essential destination for food enthusiasts, offering a profusion of stalls selling diverse local delicacies, fresh produce, and street food. It's the perfect place to sample everything from exotic fruits to piping hot delicacies like kolo mee and sago worms.
Taman Indah Night Market springs to life as evening descends, showcasing a vibrant array of street food and local snacks. Visitors can indulge in an eclectic range of treats, from aromatic grilled satay to delectable seafood dishes. The atmosphere is infused with the buzz of lively chatter and sizzling woks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sibu, it is a cultural norm to show respect to elders by using polite language and addressing them with proper titles.
It's important to be aware of and respectful towards the diverse religious beliefs in Sibu, and to refrain from behaviors that may be considered offensive.
Greetings are an important part of Malaysian culture, so it's customary to greet people with a smile and a handshake, and to use appropriate terms of address.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sibu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sibu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly practiced in Sibu, Malaysia. However, in some high-end restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, so tipping is not necessary.
In Sibu, Malaysia, cash is widely used for small transactions, while credit and debit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments. Mobile payment methods such as e-wallets are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sibu.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Sibu is during the dry season when you can enjoy pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Expect clear skies, lower humidity, and occasional rain showers.
During the monsoon season, expect heavy rainfall and increased humidity. Outdoor activities may be limited, but it's a great time to experience the lush greenery and local festivals in Sibu.
Sibu at Night
Hiking in Sibu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic nature reserve featuring various trails for hiking, surrounded by lush rainforest and wildlife.
A popular hiking spot that offers a moderate trail along picturesque landscapes, ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Located a bit further but known for its beautiful waterfalls, unique flora, and well-maintained hiking trails.
A beautiful area with stunning views and diverse trails, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for an adventure.
A local park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a great spot to enjoy nature without leaving the city.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sibu through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sibu by plane.
Located approximately 330 kilometers from Sibu, Kuching International Airport serves as the main airport for the state of Sarawak.
Located about 190 kilometers from Sibu, Miri Airport serves the city of Miri and offers both domestic and international flights.
Bintulu Airport is approximately 120 kilometers from Sibu and serves the town of Bintulu with various domestic flights.
Located around 100 kilometers from Sibu, this smaller airport also facilitates some regional flights and is used by travelers heading to rural areas.
Although not extremely close, Brunei International Airport in Bandar Seri Begawan is about 500 kilometers away and serves international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Sibu, comprising a significant portion of the population with a rich cultural heritage.
The indigenous group of Sarawak, known for their unique traditions and culture, constituting a notable percentage of Sibu's population.
A smaller yet important demographic in Sibu, contributing to the cultural and social fabric of the area.
Another indigenous group in the region, known for their distinct customs and practices, but smaller in number compared to the Iban.
This includes various smaller ethnic communities such as the Orang Ulu and other migrant populations, contributing to Sibu's diversity.
The Soul of Sibu
Discover the essence of Sibu through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Sibu, with many local teams and leagues promoting the game.
Basketball enjoys a strong following in Sibu, with street courts and local tournaments frequently organized.
Badminton is widely played in Sibu, with numerous clubs and recreational players of all ages.
Sepak Takraw, a traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is popular among the local population.
Rugby has been growing in popularity in Sibu, with schools and community teams actively participating in the sport.
Running events and marathons are commonly organized in Sibu, attracting participants from different regions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sibu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Sibu may be predominantly meat-centric, various Chinese vegetarian restaurants and eateries can accommodate vegetarian and vegan dietary preferences. Additionally, some Buddhist vegetarian stalls within food markets offer a range of plant-based dishes.
With traditional cuisine heavily reliant on rice and noodles, individuals seeking gluten-free options will find a plethora of choices among local dishes such as kampua mee, rice-based dishes, and seafood-centric meals. Communication with restaurant staff about dietary restrictions is recommended.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sibu with these cultural adventures.
